Psalms 77:15

Thou hast with thine arm redeemed thy people, the sons of Jacob and Joseph. Selah.

Psalms 77:15 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 77 is attributed to Asaph, one of the chief musicians in King David’s time. It is a psalm of lament, expressing the psalmist’s distress and his search for comfort. In this verse, the psalmist turns from his trouble to remember God’s redeeming power toward Israel.

Meaning

The verse declares, “Thou hast with thine arm redeemed thy people.” In the Bible, the “arm” of God is a picture of His mighty power and direct action. Redemption means deliverance, especially from slavery or bondage. Here the psalmist acknowledges that God Himself, by His own strength, saved His people. The mention of “the sons of Jacob and Joseph” points to the patriarchs. Jacob, later named Israel, was the father of twelve sons, including Joseph. Joseph preserved the family during famine in Egypt. The Targum, an ancient Aramaic paraphrase, renders this phrase as “the sons whom Jacob begot, and Joseph nourished,” highlighting Joseph’s care. This redemption is most clearly seen in God’s deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt, an act done by God’s power, not human effort. The verse assures believers that, like Israel, they are a redeemed people, and this redemption is a cause for song and confidence in times of trouble.

Biblical connections

The following verses in Psalm 77 recount God’s wonders, including the parting of the Red Sea (verses 16-19). This shows that God’s redemption is both historical and foundational for faith. The deliverance from Egypt is also a picture of the greater redemption through Christ, who is called the arm of the Lord. Just as God used His power to save Israel, He sent His Son to save humanity from the bondage of sin. This redemption by power is seen as typical of the greater redemption by Christ, who is the arm of the Lord.

Application

Psalm 77:15 reminds us that God is a redeemer who is actively involved in the lives of His people. When we face trouble, we can remember His past faithfulness and trust that He will act again. This verse also calls us to reflect on how God has redeemed us personally, both in physical deliverances and in the spiritual redemption found in Jesus Christ. The term “Selah” calls for a pause to reflect on this truth.

Reflection

The verse ends with “Selah,” a musical term that likely signals a pause for reflection. It invites us to stop and consider the greatness of God’s saving work. Like Israel, we are a redeemed people, and this truth is a cause for confidence and song, even in difficult times.